How to Apply for a Driving School Instructor License

Apply for your license and pay your fees online.

To apply for your license, submit the following:

• Application for Driver Instructor and All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Instructor License (OL 16I).
• Driving School Instructor Occupational Licensing Application (OL 203).
• Physician’s Health Report (DL 546A). An original DL 546A form must be submitted. Copies will not be accepted.
  • Exception: An applicant who is required to have and maintain a current Medical Examination Report (MER) (MCSA-5875) and Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) (MCSA-5876) is excluded from this requirement.
• Live scan fingerprint and Request for Live Scan Clearance (receipt) (DMV 8016).
• Valid California driver license in the applicable class.
• Driving school instructor examination.
• Certificate of Course Completion (60 hrs).
• Proof of high school graduation or equivalent.

Once you have completed these forms and collected all documents, schedule an appointment at a local DMV inspector office to submit your paperwork and fees, and complete a written examination. You have three attempts to pass the written examination.

You must complete your application within one year or a new application with all examinations and fees will be required.

Fees

• $30 nonrefundable application fee
• $1 family support program
• $30 additional license fee
• $30 reinstatement license fee (if applicable)
• $15 duplicate or replacement license fee (if applicable)
• $15 transfer of license fee (if applicable)

Driving School Instructor Examination

As part of your application, you will take a written exam that covers:

• Traffic laws.
• Safe driving practices.
• Operation of motor vehicles.
• Knowledge of teaching methods and techniques.
• First aid.
• Regulations pertaining to the teaching of automobile driver education and driver training (DE/DT) to minors under 18.

The test is required every three years.

Application Checklist

Take a look at the Driving School Instructor Original Application Checklist (OL 219) to make sure you completed all the steps.

How to Renew a Driving School Instructor License

Renew your license and pay your fees online.

To renew your license, submit the following:

• Application for Driver Instructor and All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Instructor License (OL 16I).
• Driving School Instructor Occupational Licensing Application (OL 203).
• Physician’s Health Report (DL 546A). An original DL 546A form must be submitted. Copies will not be accepted.
  • Exception: An applicant who is required to have and maintain a current Medical Examination Report (MER) (MCSA-5875) and Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) (MCSA-5876) is excluded from this requirement.
• Driving school instructor examination or Certificate of Completion for a DMV-approved 18 hour continuous education program.

Once you have completed these forms and collected all documents, schedule an appointment at a local DMV inspector office to submit your paperwork and fees, and complete a written examination if required. You have three attempts to pass the written examination.

Fees

• $30 renewal application fee
• $1 family support program

How to Modify a Driving School Instructor License

Modify your license and pay your fees online.

To modify an existing license, complete and submit the appropriate form listed on the Driving School & All-Terrain School License Modifications.

Mail your completed form and fees to:

Department of Motor Vehicles
Occupational Licensing Section
PO Box 932342 MS L224
Sacramento, CA 94232-3420